Packing List

The standard international flight limits two suitcases that can carry 50lbs worth of things. The flight from Lima to Pucallpa may only allow one 50 lb bag if it is not a connecting flight (you booked it separately). Be sure to verify weight limits with your airline. Try for large bags with wheels, crates, or wheeled suitcases.

The following suggestions are for a ten-twelve month term.

Clothing (enough for about 1 week) – Bring a few things specifically for work as well as 2 nice outfits for Sabbaths and special occasions.

6 pairs of socks – most people generally use flip-flops or sandals and rarely use socks except for exercise (running)

Deodorant, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, toilet paper, etc. can be bought here – you can even get some familiar brands (Crest toothpaste and Pantene shampoo). However, if you are stuck on needing a specific type or brand of a product, you may wish to bring it.

220 – 110 Converter minimum 50W – check the capacity of the converter/check the volts on what you’re bringing and make sure they are all compatible with your converter. 2 pronged cords work but there are no 3 pronged (grounded) wall plugs here

Surge protector – rated for 220

Laptop – there is internet (excellent for communication with family, it’s not there for movies and gaming)

Good case to protect laptop – from ever present dust

Digital camera with memory card

Flash Drive

Stethoscope – nurses

Passport

Passport Copies – travel with at least two copies of your passport stored in other areas of luggage

Backpack

Wallet and/or change purse

ATM / Debit Card – call bank and let them know you’re traveling

Malaria medication – mefloquine recommended

Instruments – people love to hear you play, especially during church. There is an electric keyboard here and there are music shops downtown so you can buy stuff for your instruments if needed.

Sleeping Things

Pillow

Two sets of sheets

Light blanket

Two towels and washcloths

Laundry bag or pop-basket

Skirt hangers – girls

Hammock (optional) – can be bought here

Money

It is impossible to cash Traveler’s checks in Pucallpa, Peru. US dollars can easily be exchanged in Pucallpa but Peruvian banks & stores do not accept bills that have tears, bad creases, folds, marks, or contain writing. It is very important to bring pristine American bills. You may call your local bank and see if it is possible to order “new” bills. Twenty-dollar bills are preferred. You can also use your debit card to extract money from your bank account at home and receive it in the local currency (Peru Nuevos Soles). Be sure to tell your bank you will be in Peru.

Things you can buy here:

Don’t feel like you must bring everything you need to live for the year. Pack light and buy here to support the local economy. Most volunteers list as one of their top-five “would do differently” items as bringing less stuff.